If you’ve served in the military or your spouse has, you can take advantage of one of the best homebuying benefits out there — the ability to buy a home without needing a down payment.

Did you know that 7 out of 10 Veterans aren’t aware of this benefit, according to Veterans United?

Missing out on the benefits you’ve earned through your service is a huge missed opportunity. So, let’s take a closer look at what you truly need to know about Veterans Affairs (VA) home loans today.

 Why VA Home Loans Can Be a Great Option

For almost 80 years, VA loans have helped millions of Veterans and active-duty service members buy homes. Here are some of the biggest benefits, according to the Department of Veteran Affairs:

  • $0 Down Payment Options: Many Veterans can actually buy a home without having to spend years trying to save for a big down payment.

  • Lower Upfront Costs: The VA limits which closing costs Veterans can be charged, so you get to hang on to more of your cash when it’s time to close.

  • No Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI): Unlike most other loan types, VA loans don’t require PMI — which means lower monthly payments for you.

VA loans are a fantastic option for service members and their families because they help build stability, save money, and kickstart long-term wealth by owning a home.

Can You Still Get a VA Loan with the Government Shutdown?

Lately, some Veterans have been unsure if VA loans are still an option because of the government shutdown. This confusion has held back many from moving forward with their home buying plans.

Even if there are some processing delays, Veterans United says you can still secure a loan.

“There’s been a lot of confusion and uncertainty about how a government shutdown will affect VA home loans . . . The good news is that the shutdown has minimal impacts on VA lending. Lenders are still able to order appraisals, obtain a borrower’s Certificate of Eligibility, submit the VA Funding Fee and more. In short, Veterans are still able to use their home loan benefit to buy a home or refinance an existing mortgage.”
— Veterans United

Even with all the headlines, you can still use your VA home loan benefits right now. The process is set up and ready whenever you are, though it might take a bit longer than usual to complete.

Why the Right Agent and Lender Matter

Keep in mind, using your VA home loan goes much more smoothly when you have the right team supporting you. Like VA News says:

“Choosing a military-friendly broker or agent who understands the VA home loan application process can make all the difference in the homebuying experience. Finding the right agency or brokerage is just as important as locking in a good VA mortgage lender. Communication is key to getting to the loan closing table.”
— VA News

Having a knowledgeable agent and an experienced lender by your side makes the whole process easier—from qualifying to closing. They’ll help you maximize your benefits every step of the way.

 Bottom Line

If you’re a Veteran, a VA home loan is one of the best benefits you’ve earned from your service. It gives you options like no down payment, lower closing costs, and other perks.

Curious to know more? Chat with a lender to make sure you’re getting the full benefits you’ve earned.